Mumbai Police Mandates Automatic ID Systems For Ships Under Trans Harbour Link

In an effort to enhance the safety and security of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), the Mumbai Police have urged the state fisheries department to enforce the mandatory use of Automatic Identification System (AIS) for all ships passing below the 21.8-km bridge. 

The move comes after a committee, formed in 2013 to review security measures for the engineering marvel, highlighted the vulnerability of the 16-km section passing over Thane Creek.

The committee, chaired by the additional commissioner of police, defence and security, Brihanmumbai, includes representatives from the Mumbai and Navi Mumbai police, and engages with experts to assess and improve security measures for the MTHL.

According to officials, ships passing under the bridge will be required to have an AIS system, which utilises GPS technology to monitor and track the location of vessels. The enforcement of this measure aims to bolster security and prevent potential risks.

“A navigation channel or corridor with colourful columns has been made especially for ships to pass through. The corridor space has a highwater range which will help ships easily pass. Also, CCTV cameras have been installed on the columns to keep track of the movement of ships. The footage will be monitored in a control room at Chirle near Nhava Sheva,” explained a police officer.

To further ensure the safety of the MTHL, four designated rescue points have been established along the 16-km stretch, with a clear division of jurisdiction between the Sewri and Nhava Sheva police stations. 

The Sewri police are responsible for the 10.4-km section, while the Navi Mumbai police oversee the remaining 11-km stretch.

“The bridge technically comes under the jurisdiction of the Sewri, RCF, and Trombay police stations as well as various others in Navi Mumbai. If any incident were to take place in the middle of the bridge, the RCF and Trombay police would be in trouble as they would have to come all the way from either side of the bridge. Hence, to ensure there is a quick response, all responsibility for securing the bridge was given to the Sewri and Nhava Sheva police,” stated the officer.

The proactive measures taken by the Mumbai Police, in collaboration with relevant departments, underscore the commitment to fortifying the safety and security of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, an integral component of the region's infrastructure network.